Four running for two seats in Belknap County District 5 race

Thursday

Oct 25, 2012 at 3:15 AM

By Samantha Allensallen@fosters.com

ALTON— The Belknap County state representative race for District 5 has two Republican and two Democrat candidates vying for two seats. The primary race was uncontested, and all four hopefuls moved forward.

On the Democratic side, Deborah F. Chase and Jean M. Henry, both of Gilmanton, are on the ballot. Chase, a retired school teacher who has lived in the state for 33 years, is a newcomer to elected office and said she rates herself as slightly left-of-center when it comes to both fiscal and social issues.

“I am running to be one of the two representatives for District 5 because I believe I can bring a fresh perspective to the State House and will represent your interests better than the other candidates,” Chase wrote in a letter to the editor.

She said she has been frustrated by the “mean spirited” tenor of the times and hopes to reach across the aisle in her position.

“I am frustrated by the unwillingness of political extremists to work together to pass legislation that is beneficial to the State,” she said. “… I am a moderate who hopes to take good ideas from all sides and work toward practical and balanced solutions to our problems. Communication with my constituents will be a priority. I plan to hold meetings to give me the opportunity to hear your concerns and for you to understand the work I am doing on your behalf.”

Henry did not return reporter’s phone calls for comment.

On the Republican side, Richard “Dick” Burchell, of Gilmanton, and Stephen Holmes, of Alton, are vying for the seats on the Republican ticket.

Holmes, 59, is a self-employed in home repair and remodeling and considers himself to be extremely conservative when it comes to his views on social and fiscal issues. He previously told Foster’s the largest issues he sees for the upcoming election are “jobs and the economy” and he seeks to be a “conservative influence” if elected.”